Over the past three games, Williams has connected with Thompson for nine touchdown passes, including four in La Salle's 40-7 win last week against Indian River.

"They are both doing a good job," La Salle coach Al Rapp said. "Dylan has always been good, but he had a good offseason and gained confidence because he knows he's a go-to-guy. Will has really matured, and he understands coverages so much more now. When he is on, we're pretty good. Will has been on."

The Williams-to-Thompson connection so infuriated Indian River's defensive players, it left many of them arguing as the Cadets continued to rack up touchdowns through the air.

Williams enters Friday's game having completed 42 of 76 passes for 885 yards and 11 touchdowns.

"I didn't expect numbers this high, but I am not complaining," Williams said. "I have a lot of room to grow, but I'm happy with my progress so far."

Thompson was quick to point out the summer throwing sessions were mainly for the benefit of Williams to help sharpen his footwork and throwing technique.

Thompson has been the main beneficiary of Williams' improvements. He's leading the team with 19 receptions for 521 yards (good for an eye-popping 27.4 yards per catch).

"The problem for most of us is their cerebral approach to everything," Schenectady coach Mark Cerrone said of the Cadets' offense. "They find a way to put themselves in a position where you either lose track of (Thompson), or they know where your weaknesses are defensively and they find that matchup they are looking for."

The graduation of three-year standout receiver Gabriel Smith opened up the team's No. 1 slot, and the speedy Thompson burst through to snag the job.

"He gets on top of you so quick, and if you hesitate, he's got you," Cerrone said of Thompson, who burned Schenectady with 164 yards and three touchdowns. "We told our kids the old saying, 'If he's even, he's leaving.' They have obviously done their work together."

"He has a better idea of where the creases are in the defense," Williams said of Thompson.

"I have been able to use my speed and get (free) in certain coverages," Thompson said. "It has really been great to see all the work I put in coming together in games. The offseason work has paid off."

Williams is in his second season as La Salle's starter. He is much more comfortable in the offense this season, and his mechanical improvements are noticeable.

"He is so solid," Cerrone said of Williams. "He is so much more confident this year than he was last year."

"I have a better feel of what I'm doing this year," Williams said.

"Will and I are both very competitive," Thompson said. "We just want to do our best and win games."